Question

Discuss the interview and observation methods used in behavioral analysis. Describe the problems we face in using these methods.

Hint:

While explaining research methods, make sure to include the key processes involved and also point out limitations or potential problems.

Answer 1

Interview Methods:
Face-to-Face Interaction: Interviews involve a conversation where a psychologist or researcher talks to a person and asks direct questions. This allows a direct assessment of behaviors.
Diagnostic Interviewing: Diagnostic interviewing is used to gather in-depth information beyond surface responses. This kind of interviewing tries to get beyond the direct answers provided by the individual.
Flexibility: Interviews can be structured or unstructured, depending on the goal of the assessment. Structured interviews use a set of questions, while unstructured ones are flexible.
Observation Methods:
Observing behavior: Observation involves watching a person's behaviors in a natural setting, such as at home or in school. This provides an insight into the behavior in its natural settings.
Use in Personality Assessment: Observation is an important method for personality assessments, because you get real life responses.
Problems in using these methods:
Observer Bias: Observer bias is a problem where the observer may influence or interpret the behavior they are observing. This is more prevalent in subjective measures.
Lack of Standardization: Interview protocols are not always standardized, which can lead to inconsistent data collection. This is especially true for unstructured interviews.
Subjective Interpretation: Interpretation of observation data can be subjective and is dependent on the training and expertise of the observer.
Time-Consuming: Both observation and diagnostic interviewing can be very time-consuming and can require a trained observer or researcher.
Artificial Behaviour: In observation, it is possible that the people may alter their behavior due to being aware that they are being watched, which may contaminate the results.
Ethical Considerations: Interviews may be ethically problematic if not done properly. Sensitive information should not be asked or recorded, especially without the consent of the interviewee.